Pakistan Criticizes Iran for Threatening Cross-Border Military Action

Chief of Staff of Iran's Armed Forces, General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri says Pakistan is expected to control its own border and take action against the terrorist bases.

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Pakistan Criticizes Iran for Threatening Cross-Border Military Action

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ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN —

Pakistan has criticized Iran for threatening to launch cross-border military strikes against suspected Sunni militants whom Tehran says are plotting attacks in the Shi’ite-majority nation.

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry says the Iranian ambassador in Islamabad was summoned Tuesday following the reported remarks by the Iran's military chief. A ministry statement said, “The Iranian side was urged to avoid issuance of such statements that could vitiate the environment of fraternal relations.”

Iran’s state media on Monday quoted Major General Mohammad Baqeri, the head of the armed forces, as saying Pakistan is expected to control its own border and take action against the terrorist bases.

"If the terrorist attacks continue, we will hit their safe havens and cells, wherever they are,” the general warned. The warning came days after an alleged cross-border militant raid killed at least 10 members of the Iranian security forces.

An anti-Iran Sunni Muslim militant group called Jaish al Adl, or the Army of Justice, claimed responsibility for the April 26 ambush in the southeastern border province of Sistan-Balouchestan.

Pakistani officials have urged Iran to share evidence to enable them to go after the suspects.

Shortly after the attack, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani wrote to Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, calling for the perpetrators to be arrested and handed over to Tehran.

Last week, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif visited Islamabad and raised the issue with Pakistani leaders, urging them to strengthen security along their shared border of nearly 1,000-kilometers.